UFC: Sylvia Relinquishes Title

The UFC announced that heavyweight champion Tim Sylvia has relinquished his title for testing positive for

a banned substance (a diuretic for weight training) after his fight with Gan McGee at UFC 44. 

The Nevada State Athletic Commission suspended Sylvia's fighting license for four months starting from

September 26, 2003 and fined him $7,500 for violating Nevada’s unarmed combat laws.

The UFC also stated that Sylvia will be working out in the community and will visit high schools to educate

athletes about the health dangers of anabolic substances. 

In a quote from the UFC, Sylvia stated:

“I made a major mistake and now I am going to pay for it. It was my decision to give up the belt because I do

not want a cloud hanging over the UFC heavyweight title"

The president of the UFC, Dana White, stated that Sylvia would be given the chance to win back his title

when he is re-instated.

The heavyweight title is now vacant and the UFC will be looking to fill the spot soon.

(10/15/03)